8 Most Popular Materials for Swimming Pool Decks

FT NEWS

Choosing the materials for the deck around your in-ground pool needs much consideration. Pool decks have special performance requirements as compared to a regular patio. They need to be easy on bare feet (read heat reflective, non-slippery, even-surfaced and resistant to chemicals, mould and mildew) in addition to being attractive. While the type of materials you choose would depend on several variables such as cost, durability and maintenance, the good news is that there are a number of them to choose from. Most pool decking is made of one or more of the materials listed below.

1. Concrete
Concrete is and has been one of the most popular materials for decks. Its attractiveness lies in its versatility. It can go from the traditional plain poured concrete decks to stained, stencilled or stamped concrete that can mimic stone, brick or other finishes with ease.

A step up from plain, poured concrete is stamped concrete which is textured or imprinted. It is an ideal pool deck surface, combining good looks, durability, and low maintenance. It also gives you a vast array of decorative options not possible with other pool deck materials. Using stains, powdered pigments and antiquing agents, you can choose from different stone, brick and tile patterns – and even wood-grained textures.

Cost: Low. Concrete is a cost-effective, low-fuss decking option.

Pros: The biggest USP of concrete is that it can be customised in colour, form and texture to complement your home and landscape. In this dual-designed deck, the plain deck complements the boundary wall, whereas the darker cement-finished deck is actually an extension of the indoors (not seen in picture).

Cons: The major disadvantage of concrete is that it is susceptible to heat and temperature changes, resulting in cracks. However, correctly placed control joints can take care of this problem.

2. Wood
There are several natural wood varieties, depending on your budget, such as pine, cedar and Brazilian ipe. In India, teak would be the best bet due to its relatively easier availability. Teak is naturally resistant to mould, mildew and insects. Wooden decks in any location require seasonal maintenance, including cleaning, sanding and sealing.

Cost: Medium to high. Wood comes in the higher price bracket, especially as it needs regular maintenance.

Pros: Wooden decks are a good choice if you want the original, warm authentic look that comes with natural wood, It is also easy to cut and shape, and easier to lay than other deck materials. Plus, it complements any outdoor décor.

Cons: Wood tends to rot or splinter, hence needs a good amount of maintenance, which would include oiling, sealing and waterproofing on a yearly basis.

3. Wood composite
An alternative to natural wood is wood-composite decking, which is a mixture of high-density polyethylene and wood particles, along with preservatives and binders.

Cost: High. It’s more expensive than real wood.

Pros: it gives you the feel of wood (you can pick your timber look) and is way less prone to rotting as it’s treated with preservatives.

Cons: It is also heavier, hence prone to sagging.

4. Synthetic
Made out of recycled plastic and PVC (cellular polyvinyl chloride), this is another popular alternative to wood, without the maintenance and weathering issues. It requires the least maintenance and lasts the longest. Synthetic decks are ‘capped’, which means a protective shell is added to the synthetic surface, which gives it its wood-like look. The decks are resistant to insect pests and harsh weather conditions. When it comes to durability, a PVC deck can withstand daily exposure to the sun, water and climate.

Cost: Very high. This is the most expensive of all the different types of decking listed here.

Pros: Synthetic decks are lightweight and long-lived, with very little maintenance required. They are a great option for high-moisture environments. They are eco-friendly as a high percentage of their composition is recycled plastic.

Cons: They involve high initial cost – but are viable in the long run. While they are made to mimic wood, they are the least likely to do a good job of it.

5. Pavers
Pavers are a popular hardscape option for paths, patios and pool decks. They generally come in concrete or stone and sometimes brick material, the first two being more durable.

Concrete pavers come in many different materials, sizes, shapes and colours and can be made to resemble cobblestones, granite, tile, or bricks.

Cost: Low. The materials cost is low; maintenance is not too high.

Pros: Pavers are low maintenance and are easy to replace if a unit gets damaged. They can be texturised to get a non-skid surface. They don’t crack or pool water.

Cons: Pavers require careful prepping of the ground before installation – it must be perfectly level; they also require a permanent border to prevent shifting, a design aspect you might not like. They are prone to colour changes and stains. There is also a strong possibility of weeds growing in the cracks between the units.

6. Stone
Stone has a rustic and earthy appeal. For a natural looking pool that needs a rugged option (such as this one), stone is a good pick. There are many types available, and prices are often determined by what’s offered in your region.

India has a variety of stones to choose from. Limestone is one of the go-to materials. It is hardy and can retain its beauty for years, no matter the weather. It’s cool to the touch, can tolerate extreme weather changes and hold up against regular use.

Sandstone, mostly sourced from Rajasthan, is a naturally lustrous stone that is smooth textured and hard, with high tensile strength. It is durable, resistant to weather fluctuations and does not require special maintenance.

Cost: High.

Pros: Stone paving available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Stone has enough natural texture to make it slip-resistant.

Cons: Darker colours or shades can become hotter than lighter ones.

7. Tiles
Tiles exude an air of sophistication, especially unglazed ceramic tiles. Most unglazed tiles have matte finishes, and some resemble natural stone. Many ceramic tiles are somewhat expensive but their beauty and user-friendly qualities offset the higher prices.

Cost: Low to medium. There’s a huge variety to choose from, which can dictate price. Installation requires a simple concrete substrate.

Pros: Tiles can withstand hot and cold temperatures equally well. They are easily customised. You can install them in colours and patterns of your choice and include decorative motifs (such as medallions) for a unique look.

Cons: The downside is the cost. Many ceramic tiles are expensive but their beauty and user-friendly qualities offset the higher prices. Also, the grout in between tiles can look grimy over time and needs constant maintenance.

8. Bricks
Brick gives a rustic and traditional look. They are available in a range of colours and sizes and can be laid with sand or mortar or even on top of a concrete floor.

Cost: Medium.

Pros: Since bricks are made of natural materials and heated at high temperatures, their colour stays fast. They are not very absorbent, so dirt and stains can be easily washed away.

Cons: Bricks have an affinity to moss and algae; and such bricks, when wet, are slippery zones, so regular maintenance is a must.

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